Businesses situated in flood-prone locations benefit greatly from the sump pump. A facility’s drain system may be overloaded by a storm’s torrential downpour, allowing a significant amount of water to enter the structure. The first line of defense for lowering or getting rid of standing water in basements and sub-levels is a sump pump. To guarantee that staff members carry out planned sump pump maintenance properly and efficiently, create a preventative maintenance plan. We’ll look at routine maintenance advice here.
What is a sump pump?
To prevent water levels and pressure from rising too high, a sump pump is a device that senses rising levels. These pumps sense the basin’s water level via a switch. The pump starts and moves water away from the home’s foundation and into a discharge pipe when the switch is triggered by a rising water level.
A pump may be driven by water, electricity, or a battery. In the event of a power outage, many sump pump systems have a backup pump that is driven by either water or a battery. Primary pumps are usually wired in.
Signs of a faulty sump pump
It’s quite probable that you need to replace your sump pump if it’s generating loud noises, operating for an extended period of time, or cycling erratically.
Learn more: Ensure a Dry Basement: Steps to Address Water Infiltration Problems
Sign | Description | Possible Causes | Next Steps |
Loud Noises | Unusually loud sounds such as rattling, clanging, screeching, or roaring from the sump pump pit. Noise may even be heard upstairs. | – Aging motor nearing failure – Incorrect installation (sharp discharge line angles) – Damaged or clogged pump (debris like dirt, sticks, or leaves) | – Call plumber to inspect or reroute discharge pipes – Wrap discharge pipes with insulation – Remove and inspect impeller for debris or damage – Replace pump if motor failing |
Constantly Running | The pump never shuts off, even without active flooding. | – Pump reaching end of lifespan – Incorrect pump size (too small for water volume) – Float switch failure (due to debris, wires, pipes, or pump shift) | – Check float switch for tangles or debris – Reposition sump pump in pit if misaligned – Replace float switch if faulty – Upgrade to appropriately sized pump |
Cycling Irregularly | The pump cycles too frequently (short-cycling) or takes too long to empty the basin. | – Float valve set too low in basin – Insufficient pump horsepower for water volume | – Adjust float valve position – Upgrade to higher horsepower pump |
The sump pump maintenance checklist
Maintaining your sump pump helps extend its lifespan and reduce the need for repairs. It is advised that a homeowner keep their sump pump maintained once a year. Sump pumps that operate often, however, need to be maintained every three to four months and monitored more carefully.
Generally speaking, sump pumps should be inspected every three to four months; however, this can vary from house to house. If you look at a sump pump pit, for instance, and the homeowners also use it to get rid of water from the washing machine, you might want to recommend that they test and clean the sump pump on a regular basis. The functioning of the sump pump may be hampered by soap and dirt. A proper maintenance guide:
Unplug the sump pump and give every part a thorough cleaning. Clear away any trash, dirt, and standing water. Clean the housing with a soft cloth, the inlet screen with a wire brush, and the discharge pipe with a GTA plumbing snake. To help get rid of any dirt accumulation, you can also fill the pit with a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar.
Look for any damaged or rusted components. Verify that the impeller’s blades are in good shape and that none of the other pump components have any obvious rust. Pour roughly five liters of water into the pit until the pump turns on, and make sure it operates smoothly and without any strange noises to check for damaged parts. Level the pump and brace it if it has tilted.
Get the bearings lubricated. Since each pump is unique and some don’t need to be lubricated, please consult your user handbook for details.
Examine your backup power source. Cut the electricity at the breaker or unplug your sump pump. The sump pit should then be filled. Make sure that the water is still ejected by the pump. If not, you can be vulnerable to flooding when a storm hits.
In conclusion, debris accumulation can be avoided by installing a cover and making sure it is still in excellent shape. The cover facilitates optimal performance and eases upkeep..
Do you need a battery backup sump pump?
Sump pumps work well to remove water from a house, but they might malfunction for a variety of reasons. When your primary sump pump fails, having a backup pump guarantees that you won’t suffer from water damage. Because some primary sump pumps are plugged into the house and lack a battery backup, flooding could occur in the event of a power outage.
Your home will be protected during severe storms when your electricity goes out if you have a backup that is either battery-operated or water-powered. Although it is not necessary, having a backup sump pump is advised for the well-being of your house.
Even though you might not give it much thought, your sump pump is essential for basement flood prevention. Since a wet basement can serve as a haven for mold, mildew, and other dangerous germs, a working sump pump can also safeguard the health of your family by halting the spread of mold and other water-related problems.
Professional sump pump inspection
For a crawl space and basement waterproofing system to work, a sump pump is necessary. Sump pumps, however, need regular upkeep and occasionally repairs.
The lifespan of a sump pump varies from seven to ten years, depending on usage. In light of this, it is advisable to replace your sump pump if it is seven to 10 years old and you are having persistent problems with it. To keep track of your sump’s age, we advise writing the installation date on it or applying a label.
It is important to get a professional sump pump inspection before dismissing your sump pump as a failure if you have already examined every component and are unable to identify the issue. Nonetheless, the following are typical indicators that your pump needs to be replaced:
There is a lot of rust on the pump.
Despite power and the absence of debris, the pump does not activate.
The pump clogs all the time.
The pump is vibrating all the time.
The pump seems to switch on and off at random times.
Comparing the pump’s remaining lifespan with the cost of repairs is also crucial. If the pump is more than five years old, for example, it has already reached or gone beyond half of its life. If so, you’ll need to determine whether it would be more cost-effective to buy a new sump pump instead of paying for repairs. It’s normally advised to replace your sump pump with a more dependable model if it keeps breaking down. You can get professional assistance in making that choice.
Make an appointment with us right now if you’re having problems with your sump pump or would like to install a system in your crawl space or flooded basement. We also provide a wide range of other foundation waterproofing options. Pryde Group is accessible throughout Canada’s Greater Toronto Area.
FAQs
Why does regular sump pump maintenance matter?
Maintaining your sump pump on a regular basis guarantees that it will function when you need it most, particularly during periods of floods or severe rain. By identifying minor problems before they develop into significant failures, it helps the pump last longer. Additionally, a well-maintained sump pump guards against mold growth and expensive water damage to your house.
What are the most common failure points (float switch, power outage, clogging)?
Frequently, the float switch becomes jammed, which stops the pump from turning on or off when it should. The pump cannot function during power outages, which is particularly dangerous during storms. The pump may not be able to move water effectively due to clogging caused by dirt, debris, or a clogged discharge line.
What DIY sump pump checks can homeowners do monthly or seasonally?
To check if the pump is operating correctly, homeowners can test it by filling the basin with a pail of water. A simple monthly sump pump check includes making sure the float switch moves easily and inspecting the power source and cord. It is prudent to clear the pit of debris and check the discharge line for obstructions on a seasonal basis.
What are the key benefits of a battery backup pump?
Even during blackouts, when sump pumps are most required, a battery backup pump keeps your basement safe. It offers additional comfort during storms that result in both flooding and power outages. By spreading the burden, backup systems can help lessen the strain on the primary pump.
When should you call a professional for sump pump inspection or basement waterproofing?
It’s essential to get your basement waterproofing professionally inspected if it cycles sporadically, makes loud noises, or runs continuously. Additionally, if your pump is more than ten years old or has seen any major flooding, you should consult an expert. Experts are able to evaluate waterproofing options that extend beyond the pump itself for long-term protection.
